Tackling a huge cleaning project can be daunting – especially when your allergies are acting up. This list will help you clean out those allergen hiding places and protect yourself from sneezes while you’re scrubbing:

1. Visit an allergist to find out what you’re allergic to.

2. Wear a protective particle mask while cleaning.

3. Buy microfiber dusting cloths.

4. Allergy-proof your mattress, and wash your bed linens.

5. Wash seldom-used linens.

6. Replace frilly drapes with simple styles in washable fabrics.

7. Buy an allergy-fighting vacuum.

8. Change furnace filters at least every 3 months.

9. Unscrew heat/air vents, and clean them with soap and warm water.

10. Clean fans (bathroom, ceiling and over the store) with warm, soapy water.

11. Use a dry cleaning method (not shampoo) to clean carpeting. Get area rugs dry-cleaned.

12. Buy a dehumidifier.

13. Discard cardboard boxes.

14. Dust and wipe down books.

15. Clean under the furniture.

16. Scrub the bathroom with a borox-water or bleach-water solution.

17. Dust your picture frames.

18. Hire an exterminator to get rid of cockroaches.

19. Keep pets out of the rooms you’re in most.

20. After dusting, leave the room for 20 minutes to let the dust settle.